On the recordJanuary 1, 1900
We can not trust the mere doctrinaire; we can not trust the mere closet reformer, nor yet his acrid brother who himself does nothing, but who rails at those who endure the heat and burden of the day.
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gutenberg.orgTeddy Roosevelt: “We can not trust the mere doctrinaire; we can not trust the mere closet reformer, nor yet his acrid brother who himself…”
Editor's note · Context
This quote expresses distrust for impractical theorists and cynical critics, favoring those who actively engage in the challenges of public service.
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More from Teddy Roosevelt
Aug 30, 1910
Let not him who is houseless pull down the house of another, but let him work diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence when built.
Feb 23, 1912
I deeply appreciate your letter, and I realize to the full the heavy responsibility it puts upon me.
Apr 22, 1910
France is one of these nations. For her to sink would be a loss to all the world.
Apr 22, 1910
The man who does nothing cuts the same sordid figure in the pages of history, whether he be cynic, or fop, or voluptuary.
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